Cannabis Microdosing More Widespread Psychedelics, Says Study
As cannabis legalization grows across the U.S., research reveals millions of adults are embracing low-dose THC products. While microdosing is often linked to psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin, new findings tell a different story.
How Common is Cannabis Microdosing Compared to Psychedelics?
A study from the University of California San Diego (UCSD) in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that cannabis microdosing is nearly twice as common in the U.S. compared to traditional psychedelics. Microdosing involves consuming sub-perceptual amounts of substances for therapeutic effects without full intoxication.
According to the Ipsos KnowledgePanel survey 9.4% of U.S. adults—an estimated 24.1 million people—have tried cannabis microdosing. Current use statistics show 3.3% are actively microdosing cannabis, compared to only 1.0% for psilocybin, 0.6% for LSD, and 0.3% for MDMA.
Why Do Consumers Prefer Cannabis?
Motivations for microdosing differ between substances. Consumers of psychedelics often seek recreational experiences or creativity boosts. In contrast, cannabis users primarily report therapeutic reasons, such as managing anxiety and chronic pain. Dr. Eric Leas notes that many are microdosing simply to lower dosage and avoid intense highs.
What is the Mental Health Connection?
The study highlights a significant link between mental health and microdosing. 21% of adults rating their mental health as “poor” engage in cannabis microdosing, compared to just 8% of those rating it as “excellent.”
How Do Local Policies Impact Microdosing?
Drug policy also plays a role; microdosing is more common in areas with decriminalization laws. As regulations evolve, consumer access changes, affecting how openly individuals report their practices to researchers.
What’s Next for Microdosing?
The research from UCSD emphasizes that cannabis microdosing is rising among adults seeking relief and control. This trend prompts ongoing questions about the need for further research and the potential benefits of low-dose cannabis products as public interest in microdosing expands.
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Liz Filmer
